By Jasmine Milburn
Northumbria University has once again showcased the incredible talents and community spirit of its students through the ‘Groove on the Tyne’ event.
Led by a group of Sport Management students, the Strictly Come Dancing competition not only provides a spectacular display of rhythm, coordination and creativity but also serves a bigger purpose – raising vital funds for the NE Youth Charity.
What is Groove on the Tyne?
Groove on the Tyne was an exciting and highly anticipated event that took place on March 7th, where Northumbria Students came together to showcase their dance ability and passion.
Some of the students involved were trained dancers and others had never learned a dance step in their life, which created some great moments of laughter as they attempted to navigate the routines.
Drawing inspiration from the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, each pair performed a routine in front of a live audience with performances ranging from Flashdance to copyrighted Just Dance choreography.
A Night of Dancing, Glamour and Community Spirit
Held in the University Students’ Union, the students poured in to watch the night’s events go down. Dressed in black tie, the drinks began to flow and the competition became even more competitive than anyone imagined.
With two high scoring 40s being awarded, it called for a dance off. The crowd stood on their seats to cheer their friends on as both couples battled it out.
The winners were student Oliver Scanlan, a rugby player, and Thalia Morfitt, a dancer. They dazzled the crowd with their Flashdance routine, packed with lifts and shocking moments.
Raising Money for NE Youth
At the heart of Groove on the Tyne was its charitable goal: raising funds for NE Youth, a charity dedicated to supporting young people in the Northeast of England.
NE Youth provide crucial services and resources for young people, helping them to grow, develop skills and create opportunities for themselves.
The charity’s programs provide guidance, mentorship, and a safe space for young people to thrive in the face of adversity.
The Impact of Groove on the Tyne
Groove on the Tyne not only serves as a platform for students to showcase their creativity and teamwork but also highlights the importance of giving back to the community.
The students involved in organizing and performing at the event play an active role in helping to raise awareness of the challenges faced by young people in the region.
The success of Groove on the Tyne lies in its ability to unite people for a good cause. It creates lasting memories for both participants and attendees and brings a sense of pride to the university community.
Groove on the Tyne was more than just a dance competition — it was a celebration of Northumbria University’s vibrant and generous student community. With its blend of entertainment and charity, the event highlights just how much students can achieve when they come together for a common cause.
With its huge success, many are hoping it will become an annual event in the Northumbria University calendar.